What is the general lighting load of residential service?

The general lighting load for residential service is established at 3 volt-amperes (VA) per square foot according to the National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines. This standardized value is used to calculate the estimated electrical demand for lighting in residential buildings, which ensures that the electrical system is adequately designed to handle these loads.

This 3VA value allows electricians and designers to create effective load calculations and to plan the electrical infrastructure accordingly, ensuring proper circuit capacities and distribution panel sizing. Utilizing this standard helps maintain safety and efficiency within residential wiring systems, guaranteeing that the lighting can function as intended without overloading the circuits.

This figure is crucial for adherence to local building codes and ensuring the safety of the electrical installations in homes.